Originally Posted by
Oakman
While I admit my post approaches the subject of dust caps with a touch of whimsy, I don't see how it can be considered trolling. I had no intention of sowing discord or upsetting anyone.
From Wikipedia (can't post urls yet):
Dust caps are really kind of odd. Looking at photos of older bikes, some have them, and some don't. I kept mine for 40 years on a PX10, but it seems that is a bit unusual. Looking at photos of classic bikes, many don't have them. Their function is questionable on a machine where every part should justify its worth in performance. Replacing them can be costly and finding originals is often difficult. I simply wondered how other cyclists view them. As I suspected, it looks to be largely a matter of aesthetics.
I like shiny things, so +1 to aesthetics. If vintage crank bolts were chromed or at least machined better and kept rust free they could be kept clean. There is also the function of keeping grit, not just "dust" out of those vital aluminum threads. I also like some level of period correctness, to the extent that I can afford it anyway, so if shelling out serious money for a 50+ year old crank set, Yes, I expect the correct dust caps in order to justify that.